Lawyers for Commissions and Inquests in Sydney & Nationwide
Your Voice Deserves to Be Heard
Trusted & Recommended by Clients. Let by Accredited Specialists
4.6Â – 120 Reviews
The O'Brien Advantage
Proven Track Record
We have successfully represented individuals and organisations in Australia’s most significant public inquiries, including Royal Commissions, Special Commissions of Inquiry, and high-profile Coronial Inquests. Our involvement has been instrumental in shaping outcomes and ensuring our clients' positions are effectively heard.
Extensive Inquiry Expertise
Our team possesses in-depth knowledge of the unique procedures, powers, and rules of evidence governing commissions and coronial courts. We expertly navigate these complex, high-stakes environments to protect your rights and reputation at every turn.
Personalised Representation
We understand that every client's role in an inquiry is unique. Whether you are an individual called as a witness, a family seeking answers, or an institution facing scrutiny, we tailor our legal strategy to your specific circumstances and objectives.
Funding Assistance Available*
We are committed to ensuring you can access expert legal representation. Our team can assist you in applying for funding from the relevant commission or inquest, explore legal aid options, and discuss flexible payment arrangements to alleviate financial strain.
Commissions and Inquests: Our Areas of Expertise
Royal Commissions
We represent individuals, community groups, and institutions who have been called to give evidence or are otherwise involved in federal and state Royal Commissions. Our lawyers provide strategic advice from the initial notice through to the final hearing.
Coronial Inquests
Our team acts for families of the deceased and other interested parties in Coronial Inquests, particularly those concerning deaths in custody, police operations, or medical settings. We are committed to ensuring the process is thorough and that our clients’ questions are answered.
Special Commissions of Inquiry
We provide robust legal advice and representation for clients involved in state-level Special Commissions of Inquiry, guiding them through the process of preparing evidence and appearing before the commission.
ICAC & LECC Inquiries
Our lawyers defend and advise individuals compelled to appear before integrity bodies such as the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC), safeguarding their rights throughout the investigation.
Parliamentary Inquiries
We guide clients through the process of making submissions and appearing before state and federal parliamentary committee inquiries, ensuring their perspective is clearly and effectively communicated.
Professional Disciplinary Hearings
We represent professionals facing tribunals and disciplinary bodies where their conduct, practice, or expertise is under examination, working to protect their careers and reputations.
Protecting Your Interests: How We Represent You
At O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors, our team understands the pressure and public scrutiny that accompanies these proceedings. We play a critical role in protecting your interests.
Preparing Your Evidence
We assist in drafting clear, accurate, and comprehensive witness statements and affidavits that address the inquiry's terms of reference while protecting your legal position.
Navigating the Process
Our lawyers demystify the complex procedures of commissions and inquests, ensuring you understand your obligations, rights, and what to expect at every stage.
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Advocating on Your Behalf
We represent you during hearings, make legal submissions, and, where permitted, cross-examine witnesses to ensure a complete and fair examination of the evidence.
Meet Our Commissions and Inquests Team
With decades of collective experience, our lawyers have established O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors as a leading firm in public law and inquiries. Led by firm founder and Principal Solicitor, Peter O’Brien, our dedicated team has represented clients in some of Australia’s most complex and sensitive commissions and inquests.
No matter your role in the proceedings, our lawyers provide clear advice and a strategic roadmap to achieve the best possible outcome. Our team includes Law Society Accredited Specialists, whose expertise is a testament to their deep knowledge and demonstrated competence in their chosen fields of law.
Our lawyers have a track record representing clients in Australia’s most significant commissions and inquests. This firsthand experience ensures you receive expert advocacy when your rights and reputation are on the line.
Protecting Your Interests: How We Represent You
1. Free Initial Consultation
If you have received a summons or wish to be involved in an inquest, contact us for a free consultation. Our lawyers will assess your situation, explain the nature of the inquiry, and discuss your legal options and potential funding pathways.
2. Investigation & Strategy Development
Your lawyer will meticulously review all relevant documents, including the summons and terms of reference, and develop a clear strategy for your involvement, tailored to protect your interests.
3. Evidence Preparation & Communication
Our team will work closely with you to prepare your statement or affidavit. We keep you fully informed about hearing dates, procedural matters, and what to expect when giving evidence, ensuring you feel prepared and supported.
4. Representation and Advocacy
We will represent you during hearings, advocate on your behalf, and steadfastly protect your rights and reputation throughout the entire process, from opening submissions to the final report.
Remember: Commissions and inquests carry serious consequences for your reputation and future. Don’t face this complex legal process alone. Contact our expert lawyers for a free consultation to understand your rights and ensure your voice is heard when it matters most.
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Commission or Inquest
Being called to an inquiry or inquest can be a daunting experience. Taking the right steps from the outset is crucial.
If You Are Called as a Witness
- Seek Legal Advice Immediately
- Contact a lawyer as soon as you receive a notice to appear or produce documents. An expert lawyer will explain your rights and obligations, including the right to claim privilege against self-incrimination.
- Preserve All Documents
- Secure any documents, emails, or records in your possession that may be relevant to the inquiry’s terms of reference. Do not destroy or alter any potential evidence.
- Maintain Confidentiality
- Inquiries are serious legal proceedings. Avoid discussing the matter publicly or on social media. Let your lawyer manage all communications on your behalf.
If You Are a Family Member in a Coronial Inquest
- Engage a Lawyer
- Securing legal representation is the most effective way to ensure your family’s voice is heard and that all relevant questions are asked during the inquest.
- Understand Your Role
- Your lawyer will explain your rights as an interested party, which may include making submissions, accessing evidence, and questioning witnesses through your legal representative.
- Prepare for the Process
- Inquests can be emotionally taxing. Our lawyers will guide you through each step with compassion and clarity, providing support while fighting for answers on your behalf.
General Tips for All Inquiries
- Act Quickly
- Commissions and inquests operate on strict timelines. Engaging a lawyer promptly is essential to ensure you can prepare effectively and meet critical deadlines for submissions and other requirements.
- Know Your Rights
- It is vital to understand your legal standing, including your rights and obligations as a witness. Our lawyers will provide clear guidance to ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire process.
Remember: You do not have to face this alone. Let the experts at O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors guide you through these challenging proceedings. We are here to ensure your rights are protected and your position is clearly and forcefully articulated.
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Whether you are a witness called to a Royal Commission, a family seeking answers at an inquest, or an institution facing scrutiny, we are here to protect your interests. Our team can assist you in applying for available funding for legal representation.
Voices of Justice: Client Reviews
Read what clients of O’Brien Criminal and Civil Lawyers have said in Google Reviews after we’ve helped clients restore their good names.
Peter O'Brien (with his superb team) has been a phenomenal blessing to me. He believed me, supported me, and undertook extensive detective work and archive research in the preparation of my case culminating in a legal precedent that will be referred to by future court decisions. It has been a stressful 9 years from beginning to end and Peter was steadfast the entire time. Thank you Peter
Absolute best in the business, I had the pleasure of Peter running one of my civil cases and to say he and his team went above and beyond is an understatement, Peter and his team are both professional and friendly, can't thank you guys enough, one would say the Lamborghini of defence.
Used O'Brien solicitors for both my criminal law case which they managed to get all charges dismissed when I was looking down the barrel of 18 months jail. Then even more impressively ran my civil claim vs the police and I got a very good outcome and substantial pay out. Easy to talk to and actually listened and took my opinion into consideration which is a first. Highly recommend!
I contacted O’Brien Solicitors after an incident involving NSW Police. The matter was based around Police behaviour in a Domestic Violence situation involving myself and members of my family. After hearing the details, Peter agreed to represent us on a no-win no-fee basis. Although potentially extremely stressful, Peter and his team made the whole process a lot easier than I had anticipated. The whole team at O’Brien's were terrific. The matter was settled and we were very happy with the outcome and, as promised, there were no fees payable by us. I couldn’t recommend this firm highly enough.
I first got in touch with O'Brien's after I posted online about my family member's situation. Peter O'Brien messaged me personally and referred me to two amazing lawyers in his firm; Wilson and Sidnie. Outstanding attention to detail and empathy. Legal Aid was available, and the case was handled with a lot of care which led to a very positive outcome. Additional legal support was offered following the outcome, without having to ask. Highly recommended for both criminal and civil matters. Thank you!
They stick up for the little guy. Keep it up!
O'Brien solicitors represented me in very complicated civil proceedings. From day one, I was greatly impressed by the knowledge and professionalism of the entire team at O'Brien solicitors. After a year of court proceedings, the matter was finalised in my favour and I could not have expected such a great outcome.
O'Brien Solicitors are a highly capable and professional team who are very generous with their time and are willing to pursue justice against those powers that be. Peter and Sidnie agreed to represent the Refugee Action Coalition at short notice in court to defend the right to protest and prepared an excellent defence. They come up with legal avenues and solutions that many others have missed. Highly recommended. After a year of court proceedings, the matter was finalised in my favour and I could not have expected such a great outcome.
Ordinary people standing up against inhumanity, abuses of power and for a better world need to know someone has their back when their own rights are abused. Thank you.
As a victim of police brutality, I was dismayed by the total lack of concern and a refusal to investigate the complaint I made in writing to the NSW Police and NSW Ombudsman. Even before I contacted Peter O'Briens Solicitors, I was encouraged by the information and positive attitude shown on their website. Peter O'Brien and the team at O'Briens Solicitors have been wonderfully helpful and supportive in seeking legal redress through the Courts. I wholeheartedly recommend Peter O'Brien’s Solicitors to anyone who has experienced police misconduct and had their rights trammelled by heavy-handed police officers.
FAQs
What is a Royal Commission or a Coronial Inquest?
They are formal, independent investigations into matters of public importance or specific incidents.
A Royal Commission is a major public inquiry with broad powers to investigate significant national or state issues, such as misconduct in an industry or government body.
A Coronial Inquest is a court hearing held by a Coroner to investigate the cause and circumstances of a person's death, particularly if it was unexpected, violent, or occurred in care or custody.
While not criminal trials, they have significant powers to compel witnesses to attend and provide evidence.
Why do I need a lawyer if I'm just a witness?
Even as a witness, your rights, reputation, and future can be at risk. A lawyer is essential to:
Help you understand your legal rights and obligations.
Advise you on claiming privilege against self-incrimination.
Assist in preparing your witness statement to ensure it is accurate and complete.
Protect you from unfair or misleading questioning.
Advocate for your interests and protect your reputation.
Inquiries are complex legal proceedings, and having an expert on your side is crucial.
I’ve received a summons to appear. What should I do?
You must seek legal advice immediately. A summons is a legally binding order to attend an inquiry or produce documents.
Do not ignore it: Failure to comply can result in serious penalties, including fines or even imprisonment.
Contact a lawyer: Your solicitor will explain the scope of the summons, what is required of you, and help you prepare a strategic response.
Who pays for my legal fees?
This depends on the inquiry and your role in it. Several funding options may be available.
Funding from the inquiry: Many Royal Commissions and public inquiries have a funding scheme to cover the legal costs for witnesses who are granted leave to appear.
Legal Aid: In some cases, particularly for families involved in Coronial Inquests, Legal Aid may be available.
Private funding: If public funding is not an option, we can discuss flexible payment arrangements with you.
Our lawyers can help you identify and apply for any available funding.
Can I refuse to answer questions?
Generally, you cannot refuse to answer questions in a commission or inquest. However, you have the right to claim "privilege against self-incrimination."
This means you can object to answering a question if the answer might incriminate you in a criminal offence.
A lawyer will advise you when and how to claim this privilege.
The Commissioner or Coroner may still compel you to answer but can grant a certificate ensuring your evidence cannot be used against you in a future criminal proceeding.
What happens if the inquiry makes a negative finding against me?
An inquiry cannot find you guilty of a crime, but an adverse finding can have severe consequences, including:
Significant damage to your personal or professional reputation.
Referral to a prosecuting authority (like the DPP) for criminal investigation.
Referral to a professional body for disciplinary action.
Termination of employment.
Expert legal representation is focused on preventing or mitigating the risk of such findings.
As a family member, what are my rights in a Coronial Inquest?
As the family of the deceased, you have the right to be an "interested party" and be represented. This allows you to:
Receive and review copies of evidence, such as witness statements and expert reports.
Have your lawyer ask questions of witnesses during the hearing.
Make submissions to the Coroner about the evidence and potential findings.
Representation ensures your family's voice is heard and that your questions about your loved one's death are properly addressed.
How long does an inquiry or inquest take?
The timeline varies significantly depending on the complexity of the matter.
A straightforward Coronial Inquest might take several months.
A major Royal Commission can last for one or more years.
Factors influencing the timeline include the scope of the inquiry, the number of witnesses, and the volume of evidence.
Your solicitor will keep you informed of the expected schedule and any key dates relevant to your involvement.
Can I Receive Compensation for Psychological Harm in a Civil Claim?
Yes, you can receive compensation for psychological harm in a civil claim. This is often referred to as "pain and suffering" or "emotional distress" damages. To support your claim, it's important to document your psychological injuries through professional evaluations and therapy records. If you have incurred psychological medical costs in your life, provide evidence of this.Â
Speak to your civil litigation lawyer and they can guide and help you present this evidence to demonstrate the full extent of your harm and seek appropriate compensation.
Whether it be suing the police, a historical sexual abuse claim, defamation, or other civil dispute, you need an expert civil law expert. Let our legal team at O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors in our Sydney office guide you.Â
How Do I Choose the Right Lawyer for My Civil Claim?
Choosing the right lawyer for your civil claim involves considering several factors. Look for a lawyer with experience in the specific type of case you are pursuing, such as police misconduct, historical abuse, or crime victim compensation.Â
Check their track record for successful outcomes in similar cases. It's also important to feel comfortable with your lawyer, as you will need to work closely together. Schedule consultations to speak with our civil litigation lawyers to discuss your legal issues and see who you feel most confident in representing your interests.
Remember: Don’t face this alone. We will fight to secure the justice and compensation you deserve on your behalf. Whether you are suing the police, seeking compensation for historical abuse, or pursuing a claim against a perpetrator in New South Wales or in another state, we are here to help.
Civil Law Case Studies
- Nicole Byrne
- December 11, 2025
Suing NSW police. When NSW Police officers repeatedly violated a Sydney* woman’s rights, through
- Nicole Byrne
- December 5, 2025
Suing NSW Police for Excessive Force: O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors successfully represented John*
- Nicole Byrne
- November 27, 2025
Brutalised by Senior Apprentices, Ignored by Superiors, John* Finally Receives Justice After Abuse at
- Nicole Byrne
- November 18, 2025
Our client, Derek*, a young Aboriginal man, successfully sued the State of New South
- Nicole Byrne
- October 30, 2025
In a major legal triumph for civil liberties, the New South Wales Supreme Court
- Nicole Byrne
- October 27, 2025
Our client, Rachel*, has courageously held the State of NSW accountable for the abuse
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- Award Winning Team
- Proven Track Record
